A man who stabbed a driver waiting at set of traffic lights in the stomach and chest has been jailed.

Junior Lawrence launched the attack in Debden, near Loughton in Essex, shortly after 7.25pm on August 4 last year.

Essex Police says the victim, aged in his 20s, survived thanks to members of the public and its officers who performed life-saving treatment.

He had been sat in his white Volkswagen Caddy at the junction with Langston Road and Chigwell Lane when police say Lawrence got out of a red Ford Fiesta and stabbed the man through the window.

The victim was discovered in Church Hill Road a short time later in a life-threatening condition. A paramedic praised the response of those who rushed to help him.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: The stabbing happened at the junction of Langston Road and Chigwell Lane. Credit: Google MapsThe stabbing happened at the junction of Langston Road and Chigwell Lane. Credit: Google Maps

Lawrence, 22, of New North Road, Ilford, was arrested around 15 minutes after the attack when officers saw the Fiesta travelling along Roding Lane, Chigwell before bringing it to a stop in High Road.

When in custody, blood was found on Lawrence's clothing.

He was later charged and at Chelmsford Crown Court on June 20 he admitted grievous bodily harm (GBH) without intent and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

At the same court on July 1, he was sentenced to three years in prison.

Investigating officer PC Cove said: “Junior Lawrence stabbed the victim in broad daylight at a busy junction.

“The actions of the attending officers and members of the public where the victim was found ensured his prognosis was not even more serious.

“Lawrence now faces a significant amount of time behind bars and Essex is a safer place as a result.”